I’m building on Obasanjo’s foundation, says Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan said yesterday that his administration is building on the foundation laid by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The president, who has been widely criticised by a large section of Nigerians including Chief Obasanjo himself for poor performance, praised his predecessor for providing the ‘solid foundation’ on which his (Jonathan’s) administration is now building to ensure the country’s development.

Jonathan ,represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo, at the grand final of a programme of events by the PDP in the South West to honour Obasanjo, said his administration committed to the implementation of the party’s manifesto, especially the revitalisation of the nation’s economy.

The former president, according to him, is “a great man whose life is tied to the history and evolution of the country. He guided our country through some of the most challenging periods of her history.

“To his credit, his administration between 1999 and 2007 laid a solid foundation for the development of our country through vibrant policies and programmes.

“He laid a solid foundation which we are currently building upon. His statemanly role across Africa and the world at large is legendary. He is truely the leader we can trust.

“We will continue to meticulously and painstakingly push well-conceived and action-oriented policies and programmes that endure the test of time.”

He mentioned areas being addressed by his administration to include “ the need for adequate power supply, transportation system, agriculture,education, among others.”

Uduaghan and Akpabio thanked Obasanjo for his intervention in 2007 which ensured their emergence as governors.

They said that but for him, some entrenched forces in their states would have truncated their ambition.

Mrs Usman, who served in Obasanjo’s government, described him as disciplined leader, who is worth emulating.

Obasanjo said he was touched by the show of affection toward him by associates and bPDP members and urged Nigerians to identify and honour their icons from across the country especially while they are still alive.

He said that is the only way to encourage people to make the sacrifices required to move the country forward, adding he owed all that he achieved or did in life to God and then to thousands of people who have worked with him.

Obasanjo said:”To me what is happening here today and what happened yesterday is unique. It is very unique because normally, we don’t seem to sing the praises of our leaders at whatever level until after they have passed away and then whatever we say, we will say don’t talk ill of the dead.

“To be here with you and to get this type of praises and affections, I fee touched… Let us identify icon in all walks of life among us so that we can encourage people to make necessary sacrifice to move our country forward. The second thing I want to say is that what I have achieved, whatever I have done and whatever position I have attained, God made it to happen, the glory and honour should be given to God who made it to happen.”

Ace juju maestro, Ebenezer Obey, who was on the band stand, entertained the audience.